Bats

The Indiana Bat was first discovered at Wyandotte Cave many years ago. It is said that Wyandotte Cave alone may have contained well over one million Indiana Bats. Today the population is about 32,000.

Population Declines

By 1980 the number of Indiana Bats in North America had dropped to less than 600,000, even though the bat was declared "Endangered" by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and many of its hibernation sites were protected. Surveys from the mid 1990's indicate that the numbers continue to fall. Today 300,000 Indiana Bats winter in only 7 caves.

It remains a mystery why the population of Indiana Bats in most places continues to decline. Obvious reasons in the past were vandalism, disturbance during hibernation and the inability to use some of their favorite caves because gates had been installed. However, scientists now think that perhaps they are affected by pesticides in the environment.

Some biologists also surmise that since fire is no longer common in our forests that the forests have become too thick and actually hinder the bat's ability to forage for insects. Bats need the forests because they provide trees where the bats can roost and give birth to their pups.

Wyandotte Cave Helps Bat Population

Wyandotte Cave is the 3rd largest hibernacula for Indiana Bats in the State and one of the most important sites anywhere in the country. Wyandotte Cave currently supports about 32,000 Indiana bats as well as smaller populations of 6 other bat species. It is believed that over 1 million Indiana bats once used the cave.

Diet

Indiana Bats are voracious eaters of insects preying primarily on moths and larger flying insects. They are often found feeding over open water or on the edges of fields and other openings.

Bats, Our Friends

Remember, all bats are useful in maintaining an ecological balance and should be left alone whenever possible. While some bats can and do carry rabies, it is very rare, and you are much more at risk from dogs and raccoons.

To receive a copy of plans for building an improved bat house that Indiana bats are known to use, please contact Bat Conservation International at (800) 538-BATS (2287) or check out their website.